Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB in review – Can extremely expensive also be extremely good?

1 - Introduction and technical data 2 - Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB: Measurement results in detail 3 - Comparison with the Corsair AF120 RGB Elite 4 - Comparison with the Lian Li Uni Fan AL V2 120 5 - Comparison with the Razer Kunai Chroma 6 - Summary and conclusion

Summary and conclusion

The Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB is part of Corsair’s iCUE Link system, which aims to simplify PC building and upgrading by integrating features like fan control, power, lighting, and data processing.But where does theory meet practice? The feature list and our testing show that the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB could well be a solid choice for well-heeled PC enthusiasts looking for an aesthetically pleasing and functional fan solution. The ability to simplify cable management, along with customizable lighting options and integrated temperature sensors, makes these fans an attractive option for those looking to customize and monitor their PC.

Let’s get to the positives in detail first, as the QX120 RGB fan offers some notable features and functionality:

• Cable Management:
  A standout feature of the iCUE Link system, and the QX120 RGB fan in particular, is its simplified cable management. The fans do not require their own cables, but are connected to each other via a plug-in system, which reduces the number of cables needed and makes installation easier.
• Lighting and Quad RGB Light Loops:
  The fans are equipped with 34 A-RGB LEDs mounted on both the front and back of the fan. These LEDs can be configured as separate lighting zones, allowing for customization of the lighting. There is also a special “time loop” effect where the lighting is synchronized to make it look like the fans are standing still or spinning backwards. One MCU makes it possible to control each LED individually for up to 10 fans, i.e. up to 340 LEDs separately. This is currently unique.
• Speed range and temperature sensors:
  The speed range of the QX120 RGB fan is between 480 and 2400 rpm. Each fan has a temperature sensor that can be read individually in the iCUE software and used to control the speeds.
• Magnetic Dome Bearing:
  You can expect longevity and smooth running here. However, long-term tests have yet to prove how long the principle will last during “overhead installation”
• Build quality and Performance:
  The fans have a quite robust design and high build quality, which should indicate a good longevity. Throughput and static pressure are okay, as is the noise emission.

But there are also shadows:

• Proprietary system:
  Self-contained and requires a special hub for connection as well as the iCUE software with a relatively high overhead. It can’t be controlled or read directly, which is a complete hindrance for enthusiasts.
• Cost:
  The purchase price is really extremely steep both as a kit and per fan as an add-on. To increase acceptance, the price should and must fall well below 40 Euros per fan. Otherwise, it will probably remain a pure feasibility study that no one will really buy.

Conclusion

This is a fan from the category “can really do if you have the money for it”, but a real distribution is opposed by the exorbitant costs. Since the fans can only be controlled with the Corsair software, even in our test, this is a distinct disadvantage if you want to build mixed systems. So you’re forced to use iCUE Link hardware for all areas, not just the fans. But then it just becomes too expensive for most. Too bad, because the approach is quite good. Only the prices are outrageously high. That will probably scare off most interested parties, somehow rightly so.